A BLOG BY HARRY TREND FROM THE DIFF

Nathaniel MG Cup final 2017 report

Jamie Mullan’s close range finish meant The New Saints won the Nathaniel MG Cup for the fourth year in a row in Aberystwyth.

It was a match in which the Saints dominated, and in truth the Welsh League leaders should have won by more.

They nearly went in front almost instantly, Connel Rawlinsons header from cleared off line.

The league leaders, who were without their top scorer Greg Draper, couldn’t profit off an excess of balls delivered by the likes of Jamie Mullen and Ryan Brobbel on the wings.

But Alex Darlington, who was deputising for Draper upfront, nearly scored. But he scooped Aeron Edwards’ shot over the bar.

Thus, Dan Spencers goal would’ve come completely against the run of play. Dylan Rees’ header along the line was picked up by Elliot Evans, before Evans played the ball across to Spencer who poked past Paul Harrison.

And the Archers had the first opportunity of the second half. Spencer did well to put his defender under pressure prior to playing the ball inside to Will Evans, whose half volley is deflected for a corner.

The Saints really should’ve been ahead after 54 minutes, Simon Spender putting in a teasing ball but Darren Edwards kneed the ball over from all of two yards.

The New Saints were eventually ahead after the hour mark. Darlington held the ball up well before rolling it through to Mullen who swept the ball it into the roof of the net. 1-0.

And with Aeron Edwards and Cullen coming close late on, it was clear there was only going to be one winner.

The New Saints will look to extend their 12 point lead at the top of the Welsh Premier league away to Cefn Druids next Friday, while Cardiff Met take on Aberystwyth at Cyncoed on Saturday in the Welsh Cup.

Published by Harry Trend

Harry Trend
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HazaTrand
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For three years I had a YouTube channel. For one year I uploaded every week/two weeks and it was actually really fun. You never know I might actually start up again sometime. A massive supporter of Aston Villa, also I'm a general enthusiast of football whether it be playing or watching. Currently I'm a member of Hastings AC, regular "parkrunner" and studying Sports Journalism at Brighton University.
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